About the Office

The Secretary of State is a constitutional office in the executive branch of state government. The secretary is vested with a number of responsibilities, including administration of elections, providing certain business services to the public, preserving documents filed with the state, publishing the Legislative Manual, maintaining the recording of financing statements, and administering an address confidentiality program.

Elections Division

The division is responsible for administration of election law and partners with county auditors, and city and township officials in the administration of elections. The division operates the Statewide Voter Registration System and prepares the official roster of voters for each election. It also:

The division reviews, approves and files articles of incorporation and amendments for all business and nonprofit organizations conducting business in the state. It provides many online and walk-in services for Minnesota businesses, including business name filings and searches, filing articles and renewals, and ordering copies and certificates. The division also:

The unit processes notary public applications, renewals and changes, and maintains a notary database.

Safe at Home Address Confidentiality Program

This program assists survivors of domestic violence and other who fear for their safety by providing a mail-forwarding service allowing them to interact with public and private entities without revealing their actual address.

Open Appointments

The office processes applications for vacancies on various state boards, councils and committees.